The Cowboys owner drew the ire of players and fans alike, but he was reportedly being disingenuous. A source told ESPN's Todd Archer that Jones told players and coaches in a meeting Wednesday he was trying to deflect attention from the team by playing the villain.

He also reportedly ensured that players understood the financial implications of anthem protests relating to TV ratings and sponsors.

Jones' conservative stance has been blasted by fans and labor unions alike, with one group filing a complaint against him to the National Labor Relations Board.

It appears Jones - who donated $1 million to Donald Trump's presidential campaign and was praised by the president for his stance - and his players will continue to be at odds amid one of the most polarized political eras in U.S. history.

I’d like to lobby @CityofCleveland to make 7/3 an official holiday where the city government is closed, banks are closed, mandatory day off for all workers. It only make sense to roll into America’s birthday with a little pre-game holiday for all on the 3rd. Retweet if you agree https://t.co/LnyACOA6xH